Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Approved
In September 2022, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) amended the emergency use authorization for the Moderna and Pfizer bivalent (“updated”) COVID-19 vaccine.
The updated boosters target the original coronavirus strain and the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron
subvariants. Right now, the BA.4 and BA.5 strains of the virus are causing the most cases and are predicted to continue to circulate in the winter. This update to the booster will help to restore the protection that has waned since the virus has evolved. Now, anyone who has completed their initial series and gets a booster will receive the updated booster to provide greater protection.
Grief Support Group
The Williams County Health Department is offering an 8-week grief support group with a certified Grief Recovery Method Specialist. This support group offers a safe, evidence-based environment for grievers to take effective and lasting action, no matter the type of loss experienced. There is no cost to participate in these group support sessions.
Registration is required. Register online at bit.ly/Griefsupportgroup
The 8 week session will begin Monday, September 26, 2022 and run every Monday through November 7, from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at the Wood County Public Library Bryan Branch.
For questions about the group, call Brittany at 419-485-3141 ext.123 or email
brittany.spotts@williamscountyhealth.org.
Flu Season
Flu season takes place in the fall and winter. Cases typically start to increase in October, peaking between December and late February. It is recommended that everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine. Flu vaccination is especially important for people who are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications, like
those with certain chronic health conditions and people 65 years and older.
This flu season is projected to have greater spread than the last 2 years, but the vaccine is proving to be effective. While ideally it’s recommended to get vaccinated by the end of October, vaccination after October can still provide protection during the peak of flu season.
Need a COVID-19 vaccine too? You can get your flu shot and COVID-19 shot at the same time.
For more information on WCHD programs and services, visit: williamscountyhealth.org